Kenya –Tanzania partner to exploit geothermal energy

Last Updated 13 years ago by Kenya Engineer

Kenya and Tanzania in early August signed a bi-lateral agreement for geothermal exploitation in Tanzania. The bilateral partnership set to commence in October this year will see to the two countries joining hands to exploit renewable energy, geothermal, in a deal said to benefit the two parties.

Tanzania boasts East Africa’s longest volcanic rift, but it has not yet exploited sources of geothermal energy that lie there. The country has at least 50 sites with the potential to produce 650 megawatts of power, according to a November 2012 Status Report by the Geological Survey of Tanzania.

Speaking to Sabahi, an online news forum, GDC’s (Geothermal Development Company) Ruth W. Musembi said that the bilateral partnership will start with Tanzania sending four top geologists for extensive training at Kenya’s exploration company, GDC.

“The number of Tanzanian scientists receiving training at GDC will increase as their country’s geothermal projects expand”, she added.

Kenya will also assist in conducting micro-seismic studies, drilling and environmental studies as well as sampling of geothermal samples in its labs here in Kenya.

Tanzania’s choice to partner with Kenya in such a noble course as far as energy is concerned, is attributed to Kenya’s success in geothermal exploitation which though not fully exploited, has made big strides towards the use of the nature-given-energy.

“Since Kenya has more than 50 years of experience in geothermal sector, the two countries will collaborate on other issues like drafting geothermal legal policies and a regulatory framework, which is the priority area before issuance of geothermal exploration permits,” notes Ms.Musembi.

Kenya boasts being the home of the first geothermal power plant in Africa, Olkaria I generating 45 megawatts of power. The power plant is however not in operation at the moment pending feasibly study on whether it should get an overhaul or be shut down and pave way for a new plant. Read:Africa’s 1st geothermal power plant could be obsolete following long time in operation

Kenya is also home of the Olkaria II Power Station which currently is Africa’s largest geothermal power station generating 70 megawatts. This is however soon to change following the completion of the 280MW Olkaria IV which is scheduled for completion next year.